The Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, has reaffirmed the importance of international education as a key driver of national development.
Speaking on Friday, February 21, at the 2025 International Study Abroad Fair held at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, the lawmaker emphasized the need for global exposure in shaping the next generation of leaders and professionals.
In his goodwill message, Ogundoyin commended the organizers for their continued efforts in providing students with opportunities to explore international education.
Reflecting on his participation in the 2024 edition, he noted the fair’s growing impact and effectiveness in raising awareness about global study options for Nigerians.
The theme of this year’s fair, “Global Mastery, Local Impact: Empowering Minds Through International Education,” explored the crucial role of human capital investment in national progress. Ogundoyin stressed that education is a foundation for economic growth, social mobility, and political stability.
“By providing our young people with access to quality education, we are empowering them to become dynamic contributors to our nation’s development, fostering a brighter future for generations to come,” he stated.
Reaffirming the Oyo State Government’s dedication to education, Ogundoyin highlighted the substantial budgetary allocation of ₦145.25 billion translating 21.44% of the total Oyo state budget for the education sector in 2025.
This investment, he explained, reflects the governor Seyi Makinde led government’s determination to empower future generations through school renovations, teacher training, and educational development programs.
“By investing in schools, teachers, and students, the government is laying the foundation for a brighter future built on knowledge, innovation, and progress,” he added.
While celebrating the benefits of studying abroad, the Speaker acknowledged the challenges that Nigerian students face in accessing international education which he said include financial constraints, visa difficulties, language barriers, and limited access to information.
“We must explore ways to make international education more accessible, affordable, and inclusive. Scholarships and financial aid play a critical role in expanding access, and we must strengthen these support systems,” Ogundoyin said.
He also emphasized the importance of international university partnerships in promoting cultural exchange and academic collaboration, ultimately enriching the learning experience for Nigerian students.
Ogundoyin, who doubles as the chairman, Nigeria Conference of Speakers of state legislatures, assured that state legislative arms would continue advocating policies that support international education initiatives and pledged to push for bills and amendments that promote scholarships, financial aid, and resources to help students overcome barriers to studying abroad.
“As State Legislatures, we recognize the vital role we play in shaping education policy and allocating resources. We will support initiatives that empower our youth through global learning opportunities,” he affirmed.
The Speaker however, expressed gratitude to the organizers for creating a platform that connects prospective students, educators, and stakeholders in international education. He expressed confidence that the fair would continue to drive opportunities for young Nigerians seeking global academic exposure.